Anxiety in School Aged Children

Experiencing anxiety every now and then is a normal part of growing up as children develop and learn about the world around them. It's quite common for primary aged children (around 5 to 12 years old) to feel anxious or worried about a number of different situations. For most children in this age group, anxiety can come and go, and for most, it doesn't linger for too long.

At this age, anxious feelings range from 'butterflies' in their tummy before playdates or assessment at school to frequent feelings of panic that may prevent them from participating in their everyday activities, including going to school. Sometimes it can be hard to recognise anxiety in children since many of the signs (stomach ache, trouble sleeping or eating and behavioural change (grumpy, easily upset or withdrawn) may also be symptoms of growth spurts, or phases or even physical illness.

However, if you believe your child's anxious thoughts and feelings have an ongoing impact on their ability to enjoy or participate in one or more aspects of their daily live, it is important to seek further support. Talking to your class teacher, GP or psychologist is a great place to start and they may offer strategies to help or provide other resources should be they be required.

Causes of anxiety in children.

Anxiety is generally caused by a combination of factor including genetics/family history, and sometimes experiences of trauma or stressful events. Examples of experiences. or anxiety triggers can include

• 5 - 8 year olds: - separation anxiety during transitions to school, new routines, fears of the dark.

• 9 - 12year olds: -bodily changes, friendships, school and family, assessments, bullying, self esteem etc.

Identifying anxiety early and supporting your child to manage anxiety using strategies can make a big difference.

However, if you feel your child's anxiety is significantly impacting their wellbeing, friendships and school achievement, talk to your GP or psychologist.

Children experience anxiety n a variety of different ways for your child, it may look like

• increased irritability and outbursts, butterflies or sore stomach, headaches or dizziness, feeling their heartbeat, trouble concentrating, difficulties sleeping. Children may say: 'I feel sick', 'I don't want to go to school', 'I think we should go now'

Sometimes children may want to escape and avoid the situation making them feel anxious, or constantly seek reassurance or even control the situations or people that bring on feelings of anxiety.

What can you do?

• acknowledge their anxious feelings and thoughts - normalise them

• gently encourage them to do things they are anxious about.

• help them through their anxiety with strategies and calming activities

If your child is experiencing anxiety, please don't hesitate to contact SherryB Psychology

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